I bought a 1969 Camaro recently and I was checking the block numbers and it’s T0403JA. I know it’s Tonawanda April 3rd but what’s the JA? Can’t find the JA suffix. It’s suppose to be a 396. Please help!

 

According to nastyZ/28
1969 396 or 427

 

The Lime Book shows the JA suffix used in 1969 as a 396 cubic inch, 325 HP, 4B, MT in a Chevelle or El Camino. You should be able to determine the year of production from the casting date or partial VIN on the block. According to this reference book, that suffix was not available in a Camaro.

 

Thank you! I guess it’s still a 396, was hoping for matching numbers.

 

I thought that may have been why you asked. The Lime Book is a good reference to have when looking to buy a car. The Camaro White Book will also give the engine suffix designations that were available in a particular model year. Great for taking with you when looking at a car to buy. For those who may be interested, here's a link where a copy of the Lime Book can be downloaded.